Puntland assembly starts 38 sessions in Garowe

Puntland president Abdiwali Gas, judicial branch representatives, and civil society attended the opening meeting of the assembly in Garowe on Saturday.  44 MPs recognized present in meeting.

After opening remarks by the assembly’s speaker, Ahmed Ali Hashi, State’s president Abdiwali Gas was given to floor. In long speech, Gas talked ISIS occupation in ancient port town of Qandala, the active war in Galkaayo between Puntland and Galmudug and his reconciliation with former Governor of Bosaso who, formed armed opposition within the state.

The state president has sensationally insisted again that Federal Government of Somali is complicit with ISIS and Galmudug in both Galkaayo and Qandala war “whether our enemy disguises in cover of Clan, Federal or ISIS, Puntland will triumph at the end” said Puntland President.

Gas received questions that included his expensive trips, revenues, and ISIS occupation of Qandala from the MPs. And after answering question he flew back to Emirates, where he travelled last week for undisclosed reasons.

Meanwhile, ISIS affiliates continue their grip in Qandala on fifth day and reports indicate a possible expansion by militants to near villages amid exodus of civilians from Qandala